Hi, I’m Sinclair.   Researchers using DNA analysis have traced today’s domestic cat back to it’s homeland.   Using over a thousand cats  from all parts of the world in the study, the researchers determined that five species of domesticated cats existed 130,000 years ago in a region called the Fertile Crescent.

The Fertile Crescent lies from the eastern Mediterranean to the Persian Gulf.  The land was irrigated by several rivers which attracted settlers to the area.   The settlers liked the cats because the cats fed on mice, rats and other vermin which ate the settler’s grain.

Using DNA, the study showed all domestic cats and the near eastern wildcat were linked.  The researchers believe cats were domesticated only in the Fertile Crescent and taken to other parts of the world.   The study will aid researchers in identifying rare species of cats.

If you enjoyed this blog, please visit my cat products website.